Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a condition that impacts heels on the feet of young people. It is often a result of inflammation to the growth plate in the heel arising from natural and sometimes uneven growth spurts in bones during puberty. The muscles and tendons, especially the Achilles tendon, can become tight and pull on the heel bone causing pain and swelling. It generally develops between the ages of eight and thirteen in girls and ten to fifteen in boys and is often transitory as the growth plate usually matures and hardens by age fifteen. This condition can occur in any child but those with flat feet, high arches, short leg syndrome, or childhood obesity are more at risk. A child in the affected age group who plays sports, like soccer, and runs or jumps a lot can complain about heel pain and this can be the culprit. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as stretching the Achilles tendon and calf will help with pain. See a chiropodist if your child develops heel or foot pain to properly diagnose the problem and create a treatment plan to best deal with symptoms and help your child return to normal functioning.
Sever’s disease typically affects young children and teenagers. If your child complains of foot pain, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse due to repetitive activities such as running, jumping, and playing certain sports. This condition most frequently affects children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Sever’s disease include:
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Pain in the back or bottom of the heel
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Pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed
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Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel
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Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities
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Fatigue
Diagnosis
Sever’s disease is diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray, can help rule out other injuries like a fracture.
Treatment
Sever’s disease typically heals without any long-term complications. Treatment involves resting the affected foot by reducing typical activities, wearing orthotics to support the foot, immobilizing the affected foot, taking medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and stretching the foot.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
